Air Mover

ABSTRACT

An overall restoration system useful in removing moisture from structures is provided. The contemplated system includes a power and control device, a series of sensors, and a number of various different drying equipment, all capable of communication with a remote server. The system is highly portable, flexible and cost-efficient to manufacture and operate.

This U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application is a Continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/986,727, filed Jan. 7, 2011, which claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/293,593,filed Jan. 8, 2010, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated byreference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to the use,including integrated use, of various devices in a system thateffectively and efficiently removes moisture and prevents thedevelopment of mold from growing in water damaged buildings, structures,etc.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Systems and devices are commonly used to dry walls, floors, ceilings andother parts of the inside of a building that have been exposed tounusually high amounts of moisture. Moisture may enter one or more roomsof the building through any of several ways. For instance, firesprinklers may be activated or firefighters may douse the building withwater to control fires within the building. The building may also beaffected by a natural disaster, such as a flood. In addition, pipes mayburst or leak or fluid drainage systems may backup, thereby exposing thebuilding to water and moisture.

Conventional water remediation systems employ a variety of equipment todry water-damaged building interiors such as air movers, i.e., electricfans, that are used to move moist air away from areas being dried.Filters are also often used to filter airborne contaminants, such asmold spores, from the drying air. If required, one or more dehumidifiersmay also be used to extract moisture from air located within thebuilding. In some situations, heaters may also be used to increase theambient temperature of the drying air and/or the area being dried, whichincreases evaporation and decreases drying time. In other situations,chemicals may be initially, intermittently, and/or continually dispersedinto the drying air stream, the building, or both to inhibit thedevelopment of mold and other naturally-occurring biologicalcontaminants. The type of equipment, equipment settings, equipment runtimes, etc., are usually determined and adjusted based upon the level ofdamage and the encountered remediation environment.

Many remediation projects are performed by professional contractors whospecialize in water damage restoration and who monitor and keep recordsof the conditions in remediated areas to track drying progress, dryingschedules, etc. Typically, relative humidity, absolute humidity, airtemperature, and moisture content are monitored, as these are criticalfactors in determining the progress of any water remediation effort.Most commonly, contractors measure the critical factors using electronicsensors that output selected parameters. As one of skill in the art willappreciate, entering a structure to obtain sensor readings is costly andtime consuming. In addition, the contractor must often manually recordand document collected data.

There are several patents that have addressed some basic waterremediation issues. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,243,050 to Armstrongand U.S. Pat. No. 7,173,538 to Pedrazza et al., which are incorporatedherein in their entirety, disclose monitoring devices that receive datafrom sensors that may transmit collected data to a remote server througha communications network. The monitoring device is also capable ofreceiving data from the remote server. Thus, the monitoring device canuse information either from the sensors, from the server, or acombination of both, to control drying equipment and/or monitor dryingprocedures. The monitoring devices are also disclosed as including USBports through which stored information can be retrieved or external datacan be uploaded.

Armstrong and Pedrazza also disclose that a single sensor may be used insome remediation circumstances, but that a plurality of sensorsstrategically placed within a structure being remediated is typical. Thesensors may include peripheral sensors connected to the monitoringdevice and sensors integrated into the monitoring device. The peripheralsensors are disclosed as being positionable inside or outside thebuilding being remediated. The references identify suitable sensors asincluding penetrating moisture sensors, non-penetrating moisture sensors(including scanning moisture sensors), temperature sensors(thermometers), atmospheric pressure sensors (barometers), electriccurrent sensors, voltage sensors, power sensors, humidity sensors(hygrometers), mold detectors, air particle detectors, and air flowsensors. The number and type of sensors installed at the water-damagedbuilding depends upon particular remediation system implementation, thesize of the building, the number and size of rooms within the building,the estimated volume of moisture that must be removed, and other factorsrecognized by those skilled in the art.

The references also disclose that peripheral sensors may communicatewith a monitoring device in any conventional manner, including throughwires, radio frequency (RF) equipment and protocols, and/or throughvirtually any analog or digital wireless communication network andprotocol. Further, the collected data can be transmitted to the remoteserver by an auxiliary device in any known fashion, including through amodem and telephone link, through cell phone communication technologies,through an RF link, and/or through virtually any analog/digital wirelesscommunication system and protocol. The data sent to the remote servercould be compiled, analyzed, and used to generate reports.

Pedrazza and Armstrong, however, fail to recognize the need formaintaining functionality while providing a constant, flexible, and safepower to drying equipment, which are located in a variety of remediationsites and that require a variety of available power configurations.Specifically, there is a need to provide a monitoring and control devicethat can accept various types of electrical power available at arestoration site and that can effectively and efficiently convert and/orsplit that power so that it can be used by required drying equipment. Bycombining the intelligent functionality of a monitoring device withnecessary power provision componentry into a single device, a rugged andversatile overall power and control system is provided that can beutilized at virtually any job site.

It will also be understood by those of skill in the art that aremediation job may employ various drying protocols implemented bydifferent types of drying equipment that are operating simultaneously.Though currently unavailable commercially, it would be advantageous tohave a single monitoring device that is capable of accepting andtransmitting data to drying equipment and/or sensors that have beendesignated for use in one of several discrete drying areas locatedwithin a single remediation site. For instance, it would be desirable toprovide a monitoring device that is able to monitor and control dryingequipment and/or sensors under varied protocols, communication channelsor frequencies. In this way, a single monitoring device can maximize itsflexibility and thus effectiveness in a given remediation setting.

It would also be advantageous to have a monitoring device that iscapable of controlling operational parameters of drying equipment. Suchparameters could include the speed of a fan, the frequency and intensityof dehumidification preformed by a dehumidifier, the amount ofchemical(s) injected into an air flow, and/or area being remediatedbased upon varying site parameters, etc. The prior art does not discloseany device capable of such intelligent operation.

Further, neither Pedrazza nor Armstrong discloses a penetrating moisturesensor for use in efficiently remediating a variety of wood structuresand that has a geometry that allows for effective installation. Also,neither discloses a sensor that can operate under a variety ofconditions and still accurately estimate the moisture content of a roombeing remediated. Further, neither Pedrazza nor Armstrong discloses orteaches an overall remediation process that is enhanced by usingtechnologically advanced dehumidifiers, air movers, air filters, quickconnection ducting systems, etc. There is a definite need to address allof these issues in the field.

It should be noted that terms such as “structure”, “room” and “building”are used broadly in this disclosure and are not limited to arbitrarydistinctions. For example, an entire basement or any portion thereofmight be regarded as a room, and the entire enclosed area of a largewarehouse might similarly be regarded as a room, if conditions warrantand depending on the layout of the building. Similarly, a crawl space,storage area or other enclosed area inside a building that needs to beremediated might be regarded as a room, building, or structure as thosephrases are used in this application.

As used herein, the word “fan” or “air mover” can include any powereddevice used primarily for blowing or otherwise moving air, includingdevices that might also be called blowers, compressors, etc. “Airfilter” can include any powered or unpowered device including one ormore media designed to remove particular matter from an air flow.

The term “dehumidifier” includes any type of device that draws, blows,or otherwise moves moisture-laden air through a condensing unit.Typically, the air passes across exposed tubes carrying cold refrigerantand moisture condenses on the cold surfaces of the tubes and anyadditional fins, baffles, etc. The condensation drips down a verticalsurface until it reaches a low point, then it falls into a collectionbasin. In commercial units the basin usually is pumped out through ahose into a drain or tank under the control of a sensor that operates apump when the basin becomes full.

Chemical dispersion systems cover any form of system that is designed todistribute chemicals into a closed area, such as a structure or a streamof air. Air heating systems include any device that is designed to heatair and may include propane forced air heaters and electrical heaters.

Devices, systems and methods are disclosed herein that address thelong-felt but unresolved needs identified above. Specifically, a numberof inventions are disclosed that are designed to operate eitherseparately or together and that will facilitate efficient remediation ofwater damaged structures. The overall system is comprised of a power andcontrol device, system sensors, air movers, air filters, dehumidifiers,heaters, chemical injectors, and other required devices. Inventiveaspects of each of these devices and how they may be operated togetherto produce a robust method of remediation is discussed below.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Power and Control Device

It is one aspect of the present invention to provide a power and controldevice suitable for use in an area that has been exposed to a greatamount of moisture. For example, one embodiment of the present inventionis a self-contained power and control device for operating electroniccomponents that resists corrosion and moisture penetration. Further, itis contemplated that the power and control device resists corrosion andother degradation so as to not leach material into or otherwisecontaminate surrounding areas that may be damp or wet.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a power andcontrol device with multi-functional capabilities. More specifically, inorder to handle a variety of different tasks in a variety of differentenvironments, embodiments of the present invention may include anynumber of devices, including, but not limited to, power collection andredistribution capabilities, the ability to collect data from sensorsand to transmit data to drying equipment, componentry capable oftransmitting and receiving various data signals from a remote server orlocation, componentry capable of aiding in the proper installation andset up, monitoring and control of drying equipment to be placed in abuilding, etc.

Those of skill will recognize that various devices of and related to thepresent invention are often operated in situations and environments withinadequate or unpredictable power sources. Accordingly, embodiments ofthe present invention can accommodate various power and current sources.For example, the power and control device may possess the ability toselect between various different current types, which is advantageous,when 240 volt, 30 amp electrical current is not available, for example.Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention include insulatedneutral wires that minimize the risk of shock, damage, fire, etc.

It is yet another aspect of embodiments of the present invention toprovide circuitry for set-up, monitoring, and control of dryingequipment. The circuitry may include volatile memory, non-volatilememory upon which firmware may be stored, a main processor andcontroller, and a RF engine. The circuitry may be housed on a singleprinted circuit board (“PCB”). More specifically, the RF engine may becomprised of a SNAPSE all-in-one module, Model Number RF2PC6 thatoperates on a frequency of 2.4 GHz. The device also may utilize SNAPmesh network technology to provide self-forming and healing nodeintegration. Further, the RF engine may interact directly withcontrollers. The PCB also may house, among other componentry, memorydevices, a debugging USB port, RF engine interface circuitry, voltageregulation and processor configuration power on reset circuitry, batterybackup circuitry, interface-to-power control board circuitry, Ethernetinterface circuitry, and external S-RAM and operational panel interfacecircuitry.

It is yet another aspect of embodiments of the present invention toprovide user interaction with a main controller. For example,information relevant to a remediation project may be displayed on adisplay device, which may include an LCD screen. During operation of thesystem, data concerning environmental conditions may, but need not,periodically be processed by the main processor and displayed on thedisplay device. Further, the user may have the ability to uploadsite-specific drying parameters and/or information into the power andcontrol device that can then be used to control, configure, etc. sensorsand/or drying equipment.

It is another aspect of embodiments of the present invention that aredesigned to accommodate receipt and/or the sending of information frommultiple sensors. Further, it is contemplated that each sensor may beconfigured to accommodate different conditions. Accordingly, differentareas having different remediation needs may be accommodated by thesystem. In this manner, the control device may optimize the dryingprocedures in a given area with exacting precision. Additionally,embodiments of the present invention contemplate the use of color-codedoutlets, sensors, and other related components in order to facilitate onsite set-up and operation and provide for quick determination of relatedor linked components, etc.

It is yet another aspect of embodiments of this aspect of the presentinvention to provide a power and control device that possesses wirelessfunctionality. For example, a portable router may be integrated orincluded with the power and control device. The router may be batterypowered or powered through a cord, which may be plugged into any of thepowered GFCI outlets of the power and control device. Using a suitablepatch cable, data may also be transmitted from the main processorthrough an Ethernet port to the router. Data may then be transmittedover the air to a remote server or other appropriate device.

System Sensors

It is yet another aspect of embodiments of the present invention toprovide portable or penetrating sensors capable of interacting with aremediation system. Battery-powered sensors may be provided thatmonitor, for example, relative ambient humidity and ambient temperature.Data recorded by the contemplated sensors may be transmitted, forexample, by a transponder (e.g. RF transponder) aided by a battery orother power source, to the power and control device in either analog ordigital format. So that multiple sensors may be utilized in a singlelocation, sensors may be capable of broadcasting data at variousfrequencies or channels or in other ways which prevent or minimizeinterference. Alternatively, sensors may be configured to send a uniqueidentification number as part of its transmission that is used by thepower and control device to recognize the particular sensor. Sensors mayfurther include the ability to be toggled on or off manually, viawireless communication, etc.

It is yet another aspect of embodiments of the present invention toprovide sensors capable of interacting and determining moisture andhumidity characteristics without suffering adverse impacts from thesame. Sensors and electrical componentry may be enclosed within a casewherein ambient air is allowed to enter through at least one andpreferably multiple apertures in the case. In operation, air enters theapertures and comes in contact with the temperature and humidity sensorshoused within the case. The primary sensor system may be placed within astructure being remediated using an integral hook or other suitabledevice.

It is yet another aspect of embodiments of the present invention toprovide sensors capable of sensing and remediating wood structures. Morespecifically, a penetrating moisture sensor is contemplated thatpenetrates various layers of material, which may comprise a woodstructure, and provides accurate and useful drying information to theuser. The penetrating sensor of embodiments of the present invention maycomprise various features of the sensors described above in addition toa penetrating member, such as tangs, nails, rods, screws, and similardevices. Penetrating sensors may be shaped so that penetrating membersand the associated sensor engages firmly to corners or intersections ofwalls and floors.

It is yet another aspect of embodiments of the present invention toprovide a sensor with a timer that acts in conjunction with othercomponentry to measure moisture content of wood included within astructure to be dried, such as a sill plate. The timer may be set up asa monostable (one-shot) circuit such that when the timer is triggered,the output of the timer is set to a high state while a capacitor chargesthrough the wood. When the capacitor is charged, the output is set to alow state. The “on time” value equals the time the output of thecapacitor remains at the high state and is associated with the timeconstant of the capacitor, which is the time it takes for the capacitorto reach about 63% of full charge and is represented by the formulaTC=16.67 RC. As the time constant is known and the capacitance value (C)of the capacitor is known, the resistance (R) of the wood, which isproportional to the moisture content of the wood, can be calculated. Thetriggering and TC values may be measured using the RF engine present inthe primary sensor. The TC value may then be sent back to the controldevice to calculate the resistance value, which is used by a mainprocessor of the control device to estimate the total moisture contentof, for example, the sill plate. Presets data may be further included inthe sensor to determine the level of humidity that relates to anacceptable or desired condition.

Fan and Heater

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide an air moversuitable for use in floor and surface drying operations. The air movermay include at least one primary inlet, suited for drawing or in takingair from a region generally perpendicular to a surface to be driedand/or for connection to a duct through which air may be drawn. The airmover may further include at least one primary exhaust suitable forventing air toward or along a surface to be dried and/or for connectionto an air duct.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide an airmover that provides for the ability to be oriented in various differentpositions, as well as be stacked or aligned with one or more additionalair movers. For example, an air mover of the present invention maycomprise various feet or extensions that allow stable placement in avariety of positions. In addition to being positioned in what may beconsidered a traditional position where the air dryer is capable ofdirecting air across a floor, the present invention may be positioned onone end such that air may be directed across a surface angled relativeto a floor, such as a wall. The feet and/or extensions of embodiments ofthe present invention allow for the combination of multiple units toprovide a greater flow rate of air across an area.

The contemplated air mover has multiple exhaust or intake portions.Louvers or apertures may be provided in one portion of the air mover,such as the bottom, such that air that is drawn in through a primaryintake and exhausted through both a primary outlet as well as throughauxiliary louvers or apertures. For example, louvers located on a bottomportion of the air mover facilitate drying of a surface directly belowthe air mover in addition to surfaces and areas located at a distanceaway from the air mover. Furthermore, auxiliary air inlets may beprovided in addition to the primary inlet. The auxiliary inlets may relydirectly on an impeller to induce air intake or may rely on air velocitywithin the air mover to draw in air.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide an airmover that further provides the ability to heat air. As it is known thatfluid solubility increases with temperature, it is often desirable toincrease the temperature of air before intake to an air mover, withinthe air mover and/or upon exhaust from the air mover. For example,electric heating coils or wires may be provided within at least aportion of the primary exhaust. Heating coils or other heatingmechanisms may draw energy from various power sources, including the airmover itself, and convert electrical energy to heat energy that heatsair as it is expelled from the air mover. Alternatively, heating coilsand various other heating mechanisms may be disposed within a mainportion of the air mover or at the inlet of the air mover. Heatingdevices and means may also be incorporated at a variety of distancesaway from the air mover. For example, heating mechanisms may simply warmambient air surrounding an air mover or may heat a specific volume ofair associated with the air mover (e.g. air within ducting connected toan air mover at a distance from an inlet and/or exhaust).

Quick Connect Systems

It is another aspect of embodiment of the present invention to providefor devices and systems that allow for channeling or prescribed transferto the air mover. Air movers as described herein may comprise features,such as lips and/or flanges that allow for ducting to be attached thatallow for the transfer of air to and from regions that are notnecessarily located proximal to an air mover. For example, where an arearequiring remediation is an enclosed space and air immediatelysurrounding an air mover may be undesirable to use for drying purposes,air may be channeled to the enclosed space from an alternate locationvia ducting. Similarly, when it is undesirable to vent air directly froma primary exhaust of an air mover, ducting may be connected to the airmover to serve as a conduit for transporting exhausted air to anotherlocation.

It is another aspect of embodiments of the present invention that allowsfor the attachment of various ducting materials to the air mover. Morespecifically, one embodiment of the present invention contemplates theuse of various elastic members, which may further include variousfasteners and devices that facilitate attachment and removal. Devicesmay include elastic cords that include gripping mechanisms thatfacilitate interconnection to a lip or flange of the air mover. Thegripping devices of embodiments of the present invention may furtherinclude the ability to slide around a circumference or boundary of anelastic member. In this manner, gripping devices may provide the abilityto gradually remove an elastic member in addition to more convention“grip and pull” methods. Elastic members or similar devices may furtherprovide the ability to be non-destructively severed in order to assistin removal and application. It is a related aspect of one embodiment ofthe disclosed system to provide a quick connect system that is capableof being integrated into a portion of the air mover and thus reduce therisk of loss of the connecting member. For example, at least a portionof an elastic member may be fastened to an exterior portion of an airmover or other drying device.

Air Filter and Chemical Injector

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide an airfilter device that in some instances may interconnect with the airmover. More specifically, one or more air filters may be connected to aninlet of an air mover that may rely on the power and air flow associatedwith the air mover to cause the air to be drawn therethrough. The airfilter may comprise attachment members for interconnection to the airmover, such as a flange or lip portion, which is located on or near anoutlet. A filter housing, which is used to control air movement throughthe filter, may also be provided that allows for removal, andreplacement of internal filter elements. The filter housing may alsoinclude clamps and other devices for securely attaching a filter to anair mover.

It is another aspect of embodiments of the present invention to providean air filter that is capable of sanitizing, disinfecting, or fresheningair. For example, ozone injecting devices may be included within thefilter housing. Methods and devices for injecting ozone are describedin, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,839,155 to Berglund et al., which isincorporated by reference in its entirety herein. Filter housing devicesmay also employ ultraviolet light radiation emission devices andchemical injection devices that sanitize or disinfect air, either beforeor after passing through one or more filters which may be part of thedevice.

Various embodiments of the present invention employ a filter device (orother devices) that dispels or atomizes the captured air to disinfect,freshen, or otherwise modify air. For example, an atomizer may beincorporated within an air flow path of a filter device, either withinor proximal to the filter that offers a user the ability to selectivelydisperse various chemicals, cleaners, and/or fragrances to an area viathe air flow produced by the filter device.

General Aspects of Embodiments of the Present Invention

It is thus an aspect of embodiments of the present invention to providea method of remediating a water-damaged building, comprising: providinga self-contained power and control device; providing at least one dryingcomponent; providing at least one sensor; placing the at least onedrying component in a water-damaged area of the building; connecting apower source to the power and control device; selectively directing thecurrent received by the power and control device to at least one of theat least one drying component; providing drying criteria to the powerand control device; gathering moisture content data from the at leastone sensor; and using the drying criteria and the moisture content datato control the function of the at least one drying component.

It is another aspect of some embodiments of the present invention toprovide a power and command device for use in remediating water-damagedbuildings, comprising: a housing for electronic circuitry andcomponentry; a plurality of electrical power inlets integrated into thehousing; a plurality of electrical power outlets integrated into thehousing; a device for selectively directing power received from at leastone of the plurality of electrical power inlets to at least one of theplurality of electrical power outlets; and a receiver for receiving datafrom at least one of a sensor and a drying component.

It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide apower and command device, comprising: a plurality of electrical powerinlets; a plurality of electrical power outlets in communication withthe plurality of electrical power inlets; and a means for selectivelydirecting power received from at least one of the plurality ofelectrical power inlets to at least one of the plurality of electricalpower outlets.

These and other advantages of the disclosed inventions will be apparentfrom the disclosure of the inventions contained herein. Theabove-described embodiments, objectives and configurations are neithercomplete nor exhaustive. As will be appreciated, other embodiments ofthe inventions are possible using, alone or in combination, one or moreof the features set forth above or described in detail below. Further,the Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it beconstrued as being representative of the full extent or scope of thepresent inventions. Rather, the present inventions are set forth invarious levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention, as well as, inthe attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Inventions andno limitation as to the scope of the present inventions is intended byeither the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. inthis Summary of the Invention. Additional aspects of the presentinvention will become more readily apparent from the DetailedDescription, particular when taken together with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute partof the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention andtogether with the general description of the invention given above andthe detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explainthe principle of these inventions.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing overall operation of oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a power and control device of oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a rear elevation view of the power and control device;

FIGS. 4A-4E shows a preferred menu set up flow chart of one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic of process flow of one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 6 is a typical three room layout of a one level structure showinghow the power and control device of one embodiment of the presentinvention could be utilized to simultaneously control three differentdrying regions within the structure;

FIG. 7 depicts a multi-level structure and the layout of two power andcontrol devices that can be utilized to remediate different floors ofthat structure;

FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of a primary sensor of one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a rear elevation view of a primary sensor of one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a primary sensor of one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 11 is a penetrating moisture sensor of one embodiment of thepresent invention as installed in a section of a structure to beremediated;

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of the penetrating sensor;

FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of the penetrating sensor;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an air mover of one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 15 is another perspective of the air mover of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a side elevation view of the air mover of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of the air mover of FIG. 14;

FIG. 18 is a bottom perspective view of an impeller assembly used in theair mover of FIG. 14;

FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of the impeller assembly of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a side elevation view of the impeller assembly of FIG. 18;

FIG. 21 is an exploded view of the air mover and its related impellerassembly of one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 shows portions of a quick connect system for securing ducting tovarious devices of the present invention;

FIG. 23 shows portions of the quick connect system of the presentinvention;

FIG. 24 shows various quick connect systems of the present invention;

FIG. 25 shows various quick connect systems of the present invention;

FIG. 26 shows various quick connect systems of the present invention;

FIG. 27 shows a perspective view of a filter assembly of the presentinvention integrated into a preferred air mover;

FIG. 28 shows a top perspective view of a filter assembly of the presentinvention integrated into a preferred air mover;

FIG. 29 shows a top perspective of a filter assembly of the presentinvention integrated into a preferred air mover;

FIG. 30 is an exploded view of a second type of filter assembly of thepresent invention;

FIG. 31 is a partial perspective view of a filter assembly of thepresent invention;

FIG. 32 is a bottom perspective partial exploded view of a filterassembly of the present invention;

FIG. 33 is a view of a connection mechanism utilized to connect a filterassembly to the air mover of the present invention;

FIG. 34 is a view of a second connection mechanism utilized to connectthe filter assembly to the air mover of the present invention;

FIG. 35 is an exploded view of the filter assembly that can be connectedto the air mover of the present invention;

FIG. 36 is a cutaway view of the filter assembly that can be connectedto the air mover of the present invention;

FIG. 37 is a second cutaway view of the filter assembly of the presentinvention;

FIG. 38 is a schematic view showing a dehumidifier of the prior art;

FIG. 39 is a schematic view showing a dehumidifier of one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 40 is a schematic view showing a dehumidifier of another embodimentof the present invention; and

FIG. 41 depicts the physical embodiment of the dehumidifier shown inFIG. 55.

To assist in the understanding of one embodiment of the presentinvention the following list of components and associated numberingfound in the drawings is provided herein:

Component # Building 2 Electrical power 4 Control device 8 Sensors 12Air mover 16 Heater 20 Air filter 24 Dehumidifier 28 Chemical injector32 Wiring 44 Wiring 48 RF transmission 52 Communicationprotocols/devices 56 Remote hosted server 60 Internet communicationsystem 64 Users 68 Internet 72 Front panel 76 Electrical power 80Sockets 84 Knob 88 Sockets 92 Circuit breaker 94 Input buttons 96 Outputdevice 100 Port 104 Back panel 108 Ethernet connection port 112Frequency 114 Stop portion 116 Handle 120 Storage surface 124 Portablerouter 128 Cord 132 GFCI outlets 136 Primary sensor 140 Channel Switch144 Power switch 146 Case 148 Aperture 152 Hook 156 Moisture sensor 160Wire 164 Housing 168 Metal penetrating members 172 Sill plate 176 Baseboard 180 Drywall 184 Inlet 186 Outlet 190 Housing 194 Lip or flangeportion 198 Power cords 202 Power supply device 206 Handle 210 Base feet214 Support feet 218 Louver 222 Apertures 226 Impeller 234 Motor 238Motor stand 242 Fastening means 246 Elastic member 254 Projection 258Lanyard 262 Pull tab 266 Pull tabs 270 Connecting member 274 Connectingmember 278 Filter device 282 Inlet portion 286 Filter housing 290 Latchmechanism 294 Filter 298 Panel filter 300 Filter housing portion-hinged304 Filter housing portion - buckled 305 Hinged arm 308 Filter stage 312Filter stage 316 Retaining clips 320 Housing sealing element 324 Airmover sealing element 326 Clasps 328 Clamp 330 Attachment mechanism 334Bracket 342 Screw clamp 338 Dehumidifier 500 Compressor 502 Evaporator504 Discharge line 508 Condensor 512 Cool water from condenser 516 Catchpan 520 Expansion valve 524 Cold water hose 525 Hose 532 Tank 536

It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale.In certain instances, details that are not necessary for anunderstanding of the invention or that render other details difficult toperceive may have been omitted from these drawings. It should beunderstood, of course, that the invention is not limited to theparticular embodiments illustrated in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 depicts a general overview of major components that may beutilized with one embodiment of the contemplated remediation system. Ascan be seen, a building being remediated 2 typically will includevarious forms of electrical power 4. A power and control device 8,sensors 12, and several drying devices, which may include an air mover16 (which may possess an integrated heater 20, air filter 24, orchemical injector 32), and a dehumidifier 28, are located within thestructure 2. The drying devices may be connected to their own electricalpower 4 and communicate with the power and control device 8.

Electrical power 4 is provided to the control device 8 throughconventional wiring 44 from within the structure, such as 220 volt 30amp or perhaps multiple of 110 volt 15 amp currents, or from anothersource, such as a portable gas powered electrical generator. The controldevice 8 may condition supplied electrical current to provideappropriate current to drying devices, such as air movers 16 or sensors12. The required power in this configuration is supplied to such devicesthrough conventional wiring 48.

The control device 8 collects data from the sensors 12, which can bestand alone devices, integrated into a drying device, or integrated intocontrol device 8 itself Information may be sent to and from some or allof the sensors and the control device via RF transmission 52 protocolsor similar methods of communication. Sensors 12 can also communicatewith the control device 8 via hard wire communication methods anddevices 56. The control device 8 may send collected data to, andreceives data or instructions from, a remote hosted server 60 via anyappropriate communications network, such as a network using an RF routerto supply information over an Internet communication system 64.

The communication network to be used by the system may be anycombination of circuit switched, packet switched, analog, digital, wiredand wireless communication equipment and infrastructure suitable fortransmitting signals to the server 60. The communication networktherefore may include one or more of the following: intranet, theinternet, a cellular communication system, a wireless data system, apublic switched telephone network, a private telephone network, asatellite communication system or point-to-point microwave system.Depending on the particular communication network utilized, the controldevice 8 may send signals in accordance with a wireless applicationprotocol, FCC 802.11 standards, a proprietary protocol or other types ofcommunication protocols.

An example of a suitable wireless link between the control device 8 andthe communication network is a wireless internet link provided through acellular service provider. The data message signals are routed to thehosted server 60 based on an IP address. The server 60 deciphers theincoming signals to extract the appropriate data. The drying proceduredata is processed to generate drying procedure information that can bedisplayed or otherwise presented to interested parties through varioususer interfaces. The user interface could, but need not be, a webbrowser application running on a computer connected to the server 60through the internet within the communication network. By designatingthe appropriate IP address, a user 68 can access the server 60 and viewdrying procedure information. Additional security and authenticationmechanisms may also be utilized in some circumstances.

Control device 8 may use collected data and/or data received from theserver 60 to adjust operating parameters of drying devices 16 and 28,heating device 20 and/or chemical injection devices 32. These operatingparameters can be communicated in a binary or analog fashion and couldinclude such actions as turning on or off power to a connected device ormay be more sophisticated and include sending actual operatinginstructions to the device, utilizing wired and/or over the airtechniques and/or protocols.

The host server 60 could include one or more input and output devicesthat facilitate bidirectional flow of information between the controldevice 8 and the server 60 and the server 60 and users 68 or otherdevices. The server 60 will have the ability to analyze data receivedfrom the control device 8, utilizing that data to generate reportsand/or other appropriate content, messages or data. If data receivedfrom control device 8 indicates fault conditions at the site beingremediated, alarms can be triggered at the structure being remediated 2,at the hosted server 60 or at another location and/or instructions canbe sent where appropriate, such as to contractors in charge of theparticular remediation project.

Users 68 can access server 60 in any conventional manner using anysuitable communication device, including over the Internet 72 toconstantly monitor their particular remediation project, access reports,request that certain drying equipment be disabled or that dryingequipment parameters be adjusted, etc. Users 68 typically will not,however, through use of appropriate security software, be allowed tomonitor data collected on other projects which may reside upon theaccessed server 60.

In one embodiment of the inventions, users 68 utilize computers toaccess server 60. Those computers typically will include at least anoutput device, such as a video monitor or display, and an input device,such as a keyboard or computer mouse. Other types of input and outputdevices can be used in some circumstances. For example, the outputdevice may include a speaker and the input device may include amicrophone, a touch screen, joystick or touch pad. In accordance withknown techniques, the computer will typically be connected to theinternet 72. An example of a suitable connection includes establishing acommunication link through an internet service provider and modemconnected to a communication infrastructure, such as cable communicationsystems or packet switched telecommunication networks. In somecircumstances, other techniques could be used to establish acommunication link with server 60. Other suitable communication linkscould include wireless communication links using WAP or WiFi connectionsand computer network connections, such as Ethernet and token ringsystems, for example.

In an exemplary embodiment, a wireless communication system couldinclude a cellular telephone system with packet switched mobile datacapabilities, such as ARDIS, RAM, or CDPD services. As is known, thesystems provide a communication data packet formed off line and a headerand error correction that is added prior to transmission. A dedicatedcommunication link, therefore, is not utilized in the exemplaryembodiment. In some situations, a circuit switched dedicatedcommunication link may be used. For example, a dial-in wireless internetconnection service over the cellular telephone system can be used forthe wireless communication link. Some wireless communication systems,for example, provide wireless internet access with the user of awireless modem that can be connected to a laptop computer or personaldigital assistant. The wireless communication system may utilize anycommunication protocol and modulation, such as, for example, codedivision multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA),advanced mobile phone service (AMPS), general packet radio service(GPRS) or global system for mobile communications (GSM) in accordancewith known techniques.

The wireless communication system also could forward data through theinternet, and possibly other communication networks, to the server 60.In some circumstances, a cellular voice channel may be used to transmitdata to the server 60. In such a circumstance, the monitoring device orthe control device 8 typically will establish a cellular call with amodem connected to the server 60, either directly or through a network.The call can be transmitted after data has been transferred andreestablished as needed or it may be maintained throughout theremediation process. One of skill in the art will appreciate thatoperators may utilize smart phones to monitor the control devices and/ormodify its operating parameters.

Power and Control Device

As shown in FIGS. 2-3, the power and control device 8 is comprised of aself-contained, rugged, and substantially fluid impermeable outer casethat safely and securely houses various electronic circuitry. The caseis preferably comprised of roto-molded polyethylene that is rigid andnot prone to damage from contact with fluid. Also, the case does notdamage the work site as it does not leach material (rust) contaminants,even when its base is immersed in fluids for a prolonged period of time.Metal panels may preferably be affixed to the roto-molded case at thefront and rear. The internal power and other components of the controldevice 8 are assembled and affixed to these panels. Those subassembliesare next bolted into the case to create the final power and controldevice 8.

The control device 8 includes five major components: power collectionand distribution related circuitry and componentry; circuitry andcomponentry to collect data from sensors and to transmit data to dryingequipment; circuitry and components to transmit data to and receive datafrom a remote server; components to aid in the proper installation andset up, monitoring and control of drying equipment to be placed in astructure; and a power supply.

The power supply used in the control device 8 of some embodiments is anoff-the-shelf unit manufactured by TDK Lambda Americas, Inc. and soldunder the Model Number MTW15-51212. The power supply receives 8 voltsAC, converting that power into three separate DC voltages: 12 volts DC;5 volts DC; and. 3.3V comes for regulation on the main board. The 3.3volt DC power is designed to operate the radio frequency engine of thecontrol device 8; the 5 volt DC power is used to power the input/outputcircuitry of the control device 8; and the 12 volt DC power is used topower the remainder of the circuitry included within the power andcontrol device 8.

The front panel 76 of control device 8 accommodates a plurality ofelectrical power sockets 84. The sockets 84 accept 110 volt, 15 ampelectrical current or 220 volt, 30 amp electrical current. Knob 88 canbe used to select the current type that is being input into sockets 84positioned on the front panel 76 of the control device 8. The knob 88can be turned to one of three positions: the off position, wherein nopower is being allowed to travel from any of the sockets 84 into controldevice 8; a 110 volt position wherein 110 volts of power is beingsupplied to one, some, or all sockets 84; or the 220 volt position,wherein 220 volts of power is being supplied to one, some, or allsockets 84 If the knob 88 is positioned to the 110 position and 220 voltcurrent is supplied to outlet 84, the control device 8 splits theincoming power equally between two GFCI electrical outlets 92. Each ofthe GFCI outlets 92 are circuit-breaker 94 protected and may receive apower cord associated with any electrical equipment, such as dryingdevices.

Each of the GFCI electrical outlets 92 may be selectively deactivated bycontrol circuitry included within control device 8. A person of skillwill understand that a controller may send a signal that will cause arelay and related circuitry to either apply or remove power from sockets92. One or more of the sockets 92 may not be under the control of acontroller 8.

The control device 8 also includes set up, monitoring and controlcircuitry. The circuitry may include volatile memory, non-volatilememory upon which firmware may be stored, a main processor andcontroller and a RF engine. All of the circuitry may be housed on asingle PCB and the RF engine is comprised of a SNAPSE all-in-one module,Model Number RF100PC6. The RF engine, which interacts directly with thecontroller 8, preferably operates on a frequency of 2.4 GHz andpreferably utilizes SNAP mesh network technology to provide self-formingand/or healing node integration. The PCB also preferably accommodates,among other componentry, memory devices, a debugging USB port, RF engineinterface circuitry, voltage regulation and processor configurationpower on reset circuitry, battery backup circuitry, interface-to-powercontrol board circuitry, Ethernet interface circuitry, and externalS-RAM and operational panel interface circuitry.

The control device also may monitor current draw which will aid the userin system operation. For example, if more than 15 A are sensed, the userwill know that there is an error in the system. Also, the user can setthe controller 8 to monitor for a specific current range that willindicate a potential system error, such as 12-15 A current draw.

The power and control device 8 also includes an input and output devicethat interacts with the main controller board and includes input devices96 and an output device 100. An input/output circuit allows the user toinput operating information into device 8 via buttons 96. Informationuploaded into control device 8 is preferably stored in non-volatilememory. Information relevant to a remediation project may be displayedon the output device 100, which may be an LCD screen.

Using input buttons 96, a contractor can upload site-specific dryingparameters and/or information into device 8 that can then be used tocontrol, configure, etc. sensors and/or drying equipment, among otherthings. For instance, starting with a setup mode, after selecting aspecific channel (i.e., channel A, B or C), the control device 8 willautomatically display sensor information, that is linked to a specificremediation zone, such as a red zone, a blue zone, or a green zone.Zones are not related to the channels. Zones are related to the coloredcircuits. However they are not part of the display setup process. Theend user has to make this connection himself. If the displayed sensorinformation shows a different configuration than was actually set by theuser, then a few help screens may come up in the display device to aidwith solving the problem. If the sensor information displayed iscorrect, the system displays all of the sensors with which it iscommunicating. If that information is correct, the system operator canmove on to the next menu. If not, a help screen is available to help theoperator solve the problem.

After the operator is satisfied with the sensor setup, a current menu istypically displayed. That menu will show the total number of circuitswhich are being supplied with current and thus operational within thepower and control device 8. If more operational detail is required, theoperator can press an information button to obtain actual current thatis being drawn on a particular circuit located within the power andcontrol device 8. Next, the system automatically will check for anInternet connection. If an Internet connection is located, the devicewill automatically move to the next menu screen. If not, typically and afew help screens will be available to help resolve the problem. Finally,the system operator must make a decision as to whether the controldevice 8 will shut down the circuits when the dew point of theremediation zone is approaching optimal. Once that decision is made, theremediation job can be started with the control device 8 being incontrol.

A setup menu structure of one embodiment is shown in FIGS. 4A-E. Thestartup menu of this embodiment allows the user to start a remediationtask with a minimum interaction. More specifically, it is contemplatedthat four buttons be pushed to initiate startup. In addition, threeautomatic system checks are contemplated, the progress of which can beaccessed by the user. Generally, unless there is an operation issue, theend user will not have to access menus related the system checks. Theuser can obtain more information about the system by way of a generalstatus menu.

In operation, the main processor accepts data received from sensors,drying devices, the remote server and/or the contractor, and can directand control certain actions to be undertaken by drying devices, thecontractor, etc. During operation of the overall system, data concerningenvironmental conditions will periodically be processed by the mainprocessor. Typically, and preferably, three different readings oftemperature and humidity will be utilized and averaged to calculate adew point per area. The control device 8 may shut down devices connectedto some or all sockets 92 when a desired dew point value is beingapproached in a given remediation environment. For instance, if averagetemperature and perhaps other parameters being recorded by the controldevice 8 are within an appropriate range of a desired dew point, acircuit shut-down command could occur. At this point, a controller willsend a signal to a relay, causing one or more of sockets 92 to bedeprived of power. Typically, air movers will be plugged into thesesockets, thus causing the air movers to discontinue operation. When shutdown occurs, alarms can be sounded and/or alarm messages sent to variousindividuals and devices etc. The sockets 92 could be reenergized asdesired by the controller 8.

The sensors can easily be calibrated or “zeroed” to a particular value,through use of correction factors stored at the main processor.Specifically, upon startup, the control device 8 will obtain informationfrom all sensors in a given remediation zone. If those sensors are noteach registering environmental variables at the same value, theenvironmental readings can be adjusted in various ways known in thefield within the control device 8. These adjusted values can then beused to make necessary future remediation calculations without actuallyrecalibrating in the field each sensor.

The RF engine is preferably capable of analyzing, converting to adigital format (if necessary) and processing data collected andforwarding that information to the main processor. The data to be sentmay have a unique format, beginning with a unique identification numbersuch as a MAC number, then sensor location identification information,followed by temperature and humidity value information, and then amoisture content value and finally battery level information. As thoseskilled in the art will realize, the information sent could bedifferent, sent in a different order, expanded, contracted, compressed,etc. Also, the data could be sent constantly or only when the sensor isinterrogated by the power and control device 8 or on some other scheduleor occurrence. The RF engine also is designed to accept data sent fromthe main processor and to configure that data for transmission tosensors, drying equipment, etc.

The RF engine of one embodiment is capable of collecting andtransmitting data over many, for example at least three, frequencyranges. By the use of these unique frequency ranges, a contractor canuse a single device 8 to communicate with multiple different sensorsand/or drying devices within a remediation structure, and have each ofthose devices or series of devices be performing different functionsand/or operating synergistically in different areas of the structurebeing remediated. One embodiment of the invention preserves battery lifeby determining recording frequency periodically by Rh factor. Forexample, if the Rh factor is greater than about 60%, frequency isreported about every 15 minutes. If the Rh factor is less than about60%, the frequency is reported about every one hour.

With specific reference to FIG. 3, a back panel 108 of control device 8is shown. In one embodiment of the control device 8, three sockets 110are shown that preferably accept 110 volt, 15 amp current. That currentis supplied to three circuit-breaker 111 protected 110 volt GFCI outlets136. In one embodiment, these outlets are not under the control of themain processor. Although not controlled, these circuits preferably arecurrent monitored. A USB connection port 104 is also provided on backpanel 108 that is in electrical communication with the main processorand can be used to download data collected by sensors or upload data tothe main processor and from sensors, digital equipment, the server, etc.Obviously, virtually any form of data port could be used in place of theUSB port 104.

The back panel 108 also includes an Ethernet connection port 112, whichis also in electrical communication with the main processor. Among otherthings, the Ethernet port 112 may be used to facilitate datatransmission between device 8 and remote server 60. For instance, port112 could be appropriately connected to a hard-wired network, an RFtransceiver or other over-the-air data transmission systems.

In one embodiment, device 8 is configured with a stop portion 116 ofback panel 108. Between stop portion 116 and handle 120 of device 8 is asubstantially flat storage surface 124 that may receive a portablerouter 128, using a cellular data card or other appropriate device. Therouter 128 may be battery powered or it could be powered through cord132, which could be plugged into any of the powered GFCI outlets 136.Using a suitable patch cable, data may be transmitted from the mainprocessor through either Ethernet port 112 or USB port 104 to the router128. That data may then be transmitted over the air to the remote server60 or other appropriate device(s). By utilizing an external router, asopposed to incorporating a data router into device 8 itself, the overallflexibility of controller device 8 may be enhanced and the cost thereofdecreased. Obviously, however, the router could easily be made integralwith the controller 8.

As shown in FIG. 6, a single control device 8 could be used to monitorand control three separate drying zones, A, B and C. As explained, asingle control device 8 may operate on three different radiofrequencies. For purposes of this disclosure, “frequency” may mean“channel” and vice versa and should be understood to include virtuallyany system, parameter, etc. Sensors (“S”), air movers (“AM”),dehumidifiers (“DH”) and other equipment may selectively be keyed to oneof several available frequencies. Specifically, data sent by sensorsusing frequency 114A are recognized by control device 8 as having comefrom only those sensors in zone A when device 8 is also set to zone A. Asecond frequency 114B in the control device 8 may be set to a secondfrequency. Again, sensors, air movers and dehumidifiers and perhapsother drying equipment in zone B may be keyed to that frequency. Whenthose devices send data to the control device 8, it is sent on the zoneB frequency and is thus recognized by the control device 8 as comingfrom those particular sensor devices. In that way, the control device 8can optimize the drying procedures in a given area with exactingprecision. The control device 8 also can operate in a third frequency114C, again with sensors and drying devices being keyed to thatfrequency, as shown in zone C. As will be understood by those of skillin the art, by utilizing a single control device 8 operating on three ormore different frequency ranges, it is possible to achieve greatefficiencies and precision in remediating compartmentalized structures.

In a second embodiment, each device capable of sending data to power andcontrol device 8 is assigned a unique identification number. Uponconfiguration of the sensors and/or drying devices in a single uniquedrying area of a structure, those devices' unique identificationinformation may be registered with control device 8. In this way, thecontrol device recognizes devices installed in a particular drying zoneand may thus efficiently control the drying parameters in that uniquearea. The identification and pairing process can be repeated for otherunique drying areas, with the total number of unique drying areas onlybeing limited by the computing power and memory of control device 8.

In one embodiment, each of the controlled outlets 92 of power andcontrol device 8 are colored differently, typically red, blue and green.Sensors may similarly be colored and thus coordinated with particularoutlets. Some auxiliary sensors which may be colored black, may beplaced in unaffected locations and used for control data. Finally, eachof the coordinating colors can be assigned to one of three uniquecontrol channels recognized by power and control device 8. Through theprocess of color coding, a user can easily set up various drying zonesand be certain that the setup process has been performed appropriately.

In another embodiment, a contractor may use multiple control devices 8in a single structure being remediated. As shown in FIG. 7, two controldevices 8 are utilized in a single wooden structure. One control device8 is utilized in the upper portion of the building, while the secondcontrol device 8 is used in the lower section of the building. Each ofthe devices can operate on different frequencies, thus allowing eachdevice to control equipment located on their particular floor efficiencyand effectively by keying the sensors and drying devices to anappropriate frequency. In a further embodiment, each of the controldevices could utilize three separate frequencies, none of which areoverlapping. In this scenario, two control devices 8 could actuallyoperate multiple different remediation zones effectively and efficientlywithin a single structure.

System Sensors

The remediation system of one embodiment of the disclosed invention mayutilize two types of sensors. A primary sensor 140 shown in FIGS. 8-10that are preferably individual battery-powered devices that monitorrelative ambient humidity and ambient temperature. That data, along witha low battery signal and moisture content information may preferably betransmitted, via an RF transponder or other appropriate over the airtransmission device, to the control device 8. The frequency or channel(A, B or C) through which data will be transmitted can be set utilizingswitch 144 shown in FIG. 10. Switch 146 is a power switch for turningthe sensor 140 on or off.

All the temperature and humidity sensors and electrical componentry ofthe primary sensor 140 is enclosed within a moisture-permeable case 148.Ambient air enters the case 148 through a plurality of apertures 152(FIG. 9) and comes in contact with the temperature and humidity sensorsthat are housed within the case 148. The primary sensor system 140 maybe placed within a structure being remediated preferably using anintegral hook 156.

It has been recognized that wood-framed structures are one of the moredifficult structures to remediate. One of the reasons for thisdifficulty is that many different materials are often layered over eachother in typical wood constructions. Measuring the moisture content ofthe integral wood located at the base of a wall, typically referred toas a “sill plate” in wood structures, can accurately predict completedrying of all of the other materials in the wall. It is known that woodcannot typically saturate beyond a 25% to 30% total moisture content andthat the percentage of moisture captured within wood can be determinedby measuring electrical resistance of the fluid-affected wood. Thetables provided above outline the approximate percent moisture contentof wood with respect to measured resistance. Accordingly, by measuringelectrical resistance present in a sill plate, one can determine themoisture content of that wood and thus estimate the overall moisturecontent of other materials located within the structure beingremediated. A second type of monitor to be used in embodiments of thepresent invention takes advantages of these concepts and findings. Morespecifically, sensors 160 (FIGS. 11-13) may be provided that include allof the componentry of the primary sensor along with a penetratingmoisture content sensor.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a table that is used bythe sensor, or the user thereof, to ascertain the moisture content ofwood. More specifically, it is known that for a given time constant andmoisture content, wood will exhibit species-specific resistance values.For example, assuming the time constant is 16.67, a Douglas Fir having7% moisture content will yield 22,400 megaohms of resistance. DouglasFir having a 25% moisture content has a resistance of 0.46 megaohms. Bycontrast, Black Ash has a resistance of 14,000 megaohms at 7% moisturecontent and a resistance of 0.17 megaohms at 25% moisture content. Theresistance vs. moisture content values associated with various types ofwood vary dramatically as described in “Electric Moisture Meters forWood”, William L. James, U.S. Department of Agriculture, GeneralTechnical Report FPL-GTR-6, 1988, which is incorporated by reference inits entirety herein. In an effort to identify resistance values thatcould be used to measure the moisture content regardless of wood type,the formula outlined above, TC=16.67 RC, was modified to normalizespecies-specific data. Thus, the sensors of one embodiment of thepresent invention uses a formula wherein the resistance values of thevarious wood types was raised to the 0.3 power, that is:

R=(TC/.67C)̂0.3.

Revisiting the example provided above, the normalized resistance valuefor a Douglas Fir at 7% and 25% moisture content under the abovereferenced formula is about 20.187 megaohms and 0.792 megaohms,respectively. With respect to Black Ash, the resistance associated withthe moisture content of 7% and 25% is about 17.532 megaohms and 0.588megaohms, respectively. When resistance values vs. moisture content ofvarious species of wood, including Douglas Fir, Sugar Pine, CaliforniaRed Fir, Sitka Spruce, Western Hemlock, White Pine, White Fir, Long leafPine, Short Leaf Pine, Ponderosa Pine, Western Larch, Jack Pine, BlackSpruce, Red Pine, Eastern Hemlock, Black Ash, White Ash, Big ToothAspen, Basswood, Birch, Paper Birch, American Elm, Hickory, Khaya,Magnolia, Mohogany, Sugar Maple, Northern Red Oak, White Oak, PhilippineMohogany, Sweet Gum, Black Tupelo, Black Walnut and Yellow Poplar, werecompiled using the above referenced formula for moisture contentsarranging from 7% to 25%, average resistance values were obtained thatare independent of wood type. The table below is used by sensors tocorrelate measured electrical resistance to moisture content percentageregardless of the wood being tested.

R (MΩ) % MC 0.810 25 0.875 24 0.954 23 1.049 22 1.164 21 1.306 20 1.47619 1.678 18 1.932 17 2.244 16 2.645 15 3.157 14 3.823 13 4.747 12 6.02411 7.946 10 11.086 9 16.643 8 24.533 7This data is used by the sensors to enhance the overall universalfunctionality of the sensors and the system.

As shown in FIGS. 11-13, a battery-operated penetrating moisture sensor160 of one embodiment of the present invention is in electricalcommunication with the primary sensor via wire 164 that plugs into theprimary sensor via a plug as shown in FIG. 10. The sensor 160 could alsobe powered from primary sensor 140 or other available power source. Asone of skill in the art will appreciate, the penetrating moisture sensor160 could alternatively communicate with primary sensor 140 via variousover-the-air communication techniques. Data collected by the penetratingmoisture content sensor 160 may be communicated to control device 8through the RF transponder included within the primary sensor or througha separate transmission system.

The sensor 160 preferably includes a housing 168 and two penetratingmembers 172, such as nails, screws, etc. The housing 168 preferably hasan angled geometry which, as shown in FIG. 11, facilitates its ease ofuse and installation into a sill plate 176 through a base board 180, anddrywall 184. Specifically, the housing 168 includes sloped side wallsthat naturally place penetrating members 172 at an angle. Duringinstallation, a contractor simply needs to place the sensor 160 on thefloor, driving the penetrating members 172 through base board 180,drywall 184 and/or any other material and into the sill plate 176.Moisture content of the sill plate wood 176 is measured by reading theresistance to current flowing between each of penetrating members 172.

In one embodiment, a 7555 C-MOS RC timer is used along with othercomponentry to estimate the moisture content of the sill plate. Thetimer is set up as a monostable (one-shot) circuit. When the timer istriggered, the output of the timer is set to a high state. The outputremains in the high state while the capacitor charges through the moistwood. When the capacitor has reached its charge point, the output is setto a low state. The charge point is lowered by placing a voltage on thecontrol input. This changes the TC formula described above to about 0.67RC. That is, the “on time” is the time the output remains high and thetime constant is represented by the formula TC=16.67 RC. Since the “ontime” (TC) is known and the capacitor value is known, the resistance ofthe wood can be calculated.

The triggering and TC values are preferably measured using the RF enginepresent in the primary sensor. The TC value may then be sent back tocontrol device 8 to calculate the resistance value, which is used by themain processor of control device 8 to estimate the total moisturecontent of the sill plate wood. Once the sill plate wood reachesapproximately 8% moisture content, the structure may be considered dryand a remediation complete signal can be generated and sent to anynumber of locations, including a communication system of a contractor,such as a cell phone, email account, pager, laptop, tablet computer,etc., to the remote server, or to some other location. In addition,messages could be sent to drying devices to change their parameters,shut off, etc. Further, data messages could be sent to the server,instructing that appropriate signals be sent to third parties and/orthat final reports be generated, etc.

Fan and Heater

Referring now to FIGS. 14-21, an air mover device 16 according to oneembodiment of the present invention is shown. The air mover 16 isprovided with a primary inlet 186 and primary outlet 190. As will befurther described, the air mover 16 includes an impeller disposed withina housing 194. The impeller operates to draw air through the primaryinlet 186 and force it out through the primary outlet 190. Variousimpellers suitable for air moving operations are known. For example,U.S. Pat. No. 4,130,381 to Levin et al., which is incorporated byreference herein, discloses an impeller for an axial-flow fan. Those ofskill working in the art will recognize that the size and dimensions ofthe impeller and impeller blades may vary based upon desired air flowrates to be generated.

Primary inlet 186 is equipped with a grate or similar device thatprevents unwanted entrance of debris into the device withoutsubstantially restricting the flow rate through the inlet 186. In oneembodiment, the primary outlet 190 and corresponding exhaust flow of airis generally perpendicular to the primary inlet 186 and correspondingintake flow. Thus, in one embodiment, drying, ventilation, and other airmoving operations may be accomplished by drawing air from one region andexhausting it at various speeds and flow rates in order to dry, clean,or clear another location (e.g. a floor). Current devices known in theart, such U.S. Pat. No. 5,403,152 to Trautloff et al., which isincorporated by reference in its entirety herein, generally draw air ina direction parallel to a surface to be dried. The contemplated airmover 16 draws air primarily from a region located above the surface tobe dried which typically will have a decreased saturation level, whichimproves drying efficiency.

In one embodiment, primary outlet 190 may be equipped with a grateand/or nozzles to direct air flow and reduce risk of injury that mayresult from the undesired entrance of objects into primary outlet 190.Primary inlet 186 and primary outlet 190 may further comprise devices toheat intake and/or exhaust flow of air as described in, for example,U.S. Pat. No. 6,52,3194 to Turner, IV, which is incorporated byreference in its entirety.

In addition to providing heating elements within an intake or exhaustportion of air mover 16, heating elements may also be provided externalto the air mover 16 in order to aid in the drying processes. Forexample, various devices that implement heating may operate inconjunction with an air mover 16. Devices suitable for use in theseapplications include, but are not limited to, propane forced air heatersand electrical heater mechanisms for heating ambient air. These devicesmay be incorporated within or external to the air mover 16. For example,U.S. Pat. No. 6,615,508 to Valle, which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety, discloses a floor drying system with a heatermechanism disposed between an air intake and outlet for heating ambientair.

Alternatively, a heating mechanism may be located external to an airmover 16. For example, an electric coil heating mechanism or propaneforced air heater may be located within or proximal to ducting at adistance away from the air mover 16. It will be recognized by those ofskill in the art that one advantage to attaching ducting to the presentinvention is the ability to channel air from or to a variety ofdifferent locations. Accordingly, it will be further recognized that airmay be channeled from an area including a heater or a heater may bedisposed within ducting at a location between the source air or exhaustair, etc.

Embodiments of the present invention may further include systems todispel or atomize substances in order to disinfect, freshen, orotherwise modify air. For example, an atomizer may be incorporatedwithin an air flow path of an air mover, either within or proximal tothe air mover. Such devices offer a user the ability to selectivelydisperse various chemical, cleaners, and/or fragrances to an area viathe air flow produced by the air mover 16. Various commercial devicesare currently known that provide the ability to selectively release suchsubstances, either continuously or on specific or random time intervals.Materials to be used with such spraying mechanisms include, but are notlimited to desiccants, disinfectants, air fresheners, moldicides,mildewcides and similar substances known to those working in the art.

As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, one embodiment of the disclosed devicefurther comprises a lip or flange portion 198 positioned around acircumference of the primary inlet 186 and primary outlet 190. Flangemembers 198 allow for quick and secure attachment of power cords 202,extension cords, and like devices. For example, when the device 16 isnot in use, a primary power supply cord 202 or extension cords may bewrapped around one or both of these flange portions 198. The ability tosecure various items directly to the device 16 facilitatestransportation and storage of the device 16.

Similarly, flange members 198 allow for the easy attachment ofadditional devices to the air mover 16, such as ducting. It will berecognized that the use of ducting in connection with aspects of thepresent invention may be desirable where, for example, air, gas, orfluid is to be conveyed to or from a remote location by the air mover16. Various ducting, such as aluminum flex tubing, convoluted tubing,rubber hose, corrugated aluminum tubing, PVC tubing, polyesterreinforced tubing, corrugated steel wall tubing, fiberglass tubing,spiral ducting tubing, and other similar ducting products known in theart may be used in combination with the present invention. In oneembodiment, inlet portion 186 is constructed to receive spiral ducting,while a primary outlet 190 is constructed to receive lay flat ducting.

Embodiments of the present invention may further comprise power supplycords 202 and/or device for accommodating detachable power supply cordsand extension cords that may further operate as power supply sources foradditional devices. For example, a primary alternating current powersupply may be provided to the device 16 through a power supply cord 202.The power supplied by this cord 202 may be used to run the device 16 aswell provide additional power for other devices which may be connectedby a power supply device 206. Power supply device 206 may be comprisedof a GFCI socket or other similar device known in the art to divert orshare current.

The outer structure of the air mover 16 may further comprise a handle210 or similar means for carrying and relocating the device 16. It willbe recognized that in certain cleaning and drying operations, frequentrelocation of the device 16 may be necessary or desirable. Accordingly,a permanent handle 210 or other means for moving the device 16 isprovided in one embodiment. Current devices are known to provide handlesin the center of relatively wide air mover. Accordingly, these devicesrequire a large amount of effort and/or discomfort for a user to carryor transport due to the relative distance of the handle from a user'scenter of mass. Placing the handle 210 of the preferred device towardthe front addresses this shortcoming of the prior art.

In one embodiment, the present inventive air mover 16 comprises basefeet 214 (seen in FIG. 16) that elevate, support, and stabilize at leasta portion of the device 16 from an area or surface to be dried orcleaned. Various features of the present invention, as will be describedherein, are enabled by the elevation provided by the base feet 214 whenthe device 16 is utilized in horizontal operation. As will berecognized, that the force of exhausted air in combination with wet ordamp surfaces upon which the present invention is typically used mayresult in the undesired movement or translation of the device 16.Accordingly, providing base feet 214 at least partially comprised of arubber or similar non-skid material may be desirable.

Furthermore, the structure of air mover 16 comprises support feet 218that enable the air mover 16 to be positioned and operate in variousdifferent arrangements. More specifically, support feet 218 allow forthe device 16 to be positioned in a side position (i.e., where the widthof the primary outlet 190 is positioned generally perpendicular to aplanar floor surface) or in a vertical position (i.e., where the primaryoutlet 190 is generally directed upward).

Support feet 218 further provide for the ability to stack, orient, oralign multiple air movers 16 in combination with each other. Forexample, when it is desirable to arrange two or more air movers 16 in aside position, corresponding support feet 214 may allow for the devicesto be stacked. In one embodiment, at least some of the support feet 218comprise a generally flat planar surface upon which the device 16 mayrest or where additional devices of the same or similar construction mayrest. Accordingly, support feet 218 allow for the device 16 to bearranged in various different positions or in combination withadditional devices.

Referring now to FIG. 17, a bottom view of the air mover 16 is provided.In one embodiment, a louver 222 is provided in a bottom portion of theair mover 16 that is comprised of a circular plate with apertures 226formed therethrough. In one embodiment, the louver 222 is rotatablymounted upon a portion of the device housing 194, yet is in sufficientlyclose proximity and/or communication with device housing 194 to preventor limit air flow through or around the louver 222 when it is in aclosed position. The rotatably mounted louver 222 allows for the abilityto selectively rotate the louver to align with corresponding holes orports in the housing 194 when air flow through the louver 222 isdesired. Similarly, the louver 222 may be rotated so that it ismisaligned with ports in the housing 194 when air flow through thelouver 222 is not desired.

Louver 222 may be optionally closed or opened to a variety of positionsto enable air flow through a bottom portion of the air mover 16, as wellas through the primary outlet 190. For example, when high pressureoperation is desired, louver 222 may be closed to render the primaryoutlet 190 the exclusive exhaust port for air. When lower pressureoperation is desired, or where it is desirable to vent air to a regionlocated beneath the air mover 16, louver 222 may be opened, eitherpartially or fully, to vent air from the primary intake 186 through thelouver 222 and the primary outlet 190.

Although in one embodiment the louver 222 primarily operates as anoptional exhaust port, it will be recognized that louver 222 maysimilarly operate as an air intake. For example, where air drawn inthrough a primary intake 186 travels toward the primary outlet 190 athigh velocities and creates a lowered pressure within the device 16, airmay also be drawn in through the louver 222. Furthermore, although FIG.17 depicts a louver 222 as containing generally circular apertures 226,it will be recognized that louvers 222 of the present invention are notlimited to any specific form, shape, size, etc. For example, louver 222may be comprised of parallel slots of various shapes and orientationsthat are selectively adjustable to control or limit the amount of airallowed to pass through the louver 222. It will also be recognized thatobjects of the present invention may be accomplished without a discretenumber of louvers 222 or apertures beneath the air mover 16. Forexample, the device 16 may include a portion of a bottom surface whichis fully removable, thus creating a single aperture in the bottomsurface through which air and gases may be conveyed.

Referring now to FIGS. 18-20, the impeller assembly 230 for use invarious embodiments of the present inventive air mover 16 is shown. Inone embodiment, at least one primary impeller 234 is employed to moveair and gas through various components of the present invention.Impeller 234 is driven by co-axially mounted motor 238 and furthersupported by a motor stand 242. It will be recognized that variousmotors, including, but not limited to, alternating current induction,alternating current synchronous, direct current stepper, direct currentbrushless, and direct current brushed motors may serve objects of thepresent invention. However, it will further be recognized that variousembodiments of the present invention may be used in industrial cleaningand floor drying situations and thus require sufficient power to movethe desired volume of air at a desired velocity. For example, oneembodiment of the present invention contemplates an exhaust flow rate ofapproximately 20 cubic feet per minute at an air velocity of 24 milesper hour achieved through the use of 1.48 amps of current.

The motor mount 242 comprises fastening member 246 capable of securelyconnecting the motor assembly and impeller 234 to a portion of the airmover 16 housing 194. In addition to providing for stability of themotor 238 and impeller 234 during operation, fastening member 246further offer the ability to remove the motor assembly 238 and impellerassemblies 230 without excessive deconstruction of the air mover 16. Forexample, a motor mount 242 may be directly connected to a base portionof the device housing 194 via fasteners 246. Accordingly, the motormount 242, motor 238, and impeller 234 may be removed as a singleassembly by removing the fasteners 246 and withdrawing the assemblythrough the resulting aperture in the base portion. In this manner,various internal components of the present invention may be quickly andeasily removed from the device for cleaning, repair, and/or replacement.

FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view showing assembly of the airmover 16 according to various embodiments as described herein. Theimpeller 234, motor 238, and motor mount 242 assemblies may be insertedinto a bottom portion so that a center axis of the motor 238 andimpeller 234 are aligned with a center axis of the primary inlet 186 andpositioned generally perpendicular to center axis of a primary outlet190 of the air mover 16. Impeller 234 and motor stand 242 may be securedto a portion of the device housing 194 via fasteners 246. A louver 222may be secured to a base portion of the motor mount 242 to optionallyallow for additional venting of air or gas through a bottom portion ofthe device 16. As one of skill working in the art will recognize, theassembly of various components of the present invention may facilitatethe selective removal of one or more components. As previouslydescribed, the entire impeller 234, motor mount 242, and louver 222 maybe removed as a unit. Alternatively, a portion or portions of this unitmay be selectively removed due to its stacked construction.

Quick Connect Systems

Referring now to FIGS. 22-26, various other features of one embodimentof the present inventions are shown. Specifically, various devices andmethods for securing objects to an air mover 16 are depicted. FIG. 22depicts an elastic member 254 that may be comprised of devices commonlyreferred to as bungee or shock cords, which typically consist of one ormore strands of an elastic material and which may be covered by a sheathor housing comprised of nylon, cotton, or similar materials. In oneembodiment, the elastic member 254 is formed as a closed loop, with itsends securely fastened together and surrounded by a projection 258 whichis conducive to user operation. For example, projection 258 may becomprised of a sphere which provides an interface for a user to grip inorder to remove, apply, or otherwise easily interact with the elasticmember 254.

The elastic member 254 may be secured around a lip or flange portion 198of a primary inlet 186 and/or a primary outlet 190. In one embodiment,the elastic member(s) 254 may be used to secure ducting or similardevices to at least one portion of device 16. For example, ducting maybe provided as a conduit to transport clean air from a surroundingenvironment to an air mover 16, where it is subsequently exhausted bythe air mover 16 to dry surfaces and/or ventilate an area. Those ofskill in the art will recognize that ducting may be connected to any,all, or none of the inlet and exhaust portions of drying equipment inorder to facilitate remediation of the building.

FIG. 23 further illustrates an elastic member 254 with a projection 258and a lanyard or attachment member 262, which may be incorporated withelastic member 254 of one embodiment. The lanyard or attachment means262 may be comprised of a variety of materials, including, but notlimited to, nylon, cotton, plastic, metals, or other materials ofsufficient durability. In one embodiment, the lanyard 262 functions tosecure the elastic member 254 to a specific device to prevent or reducethe risk of loss or misplacement of the elastic member 254. Accordingly,lanyard 262 may be attached to the elastic member 254 (e.g. formed as aportion of the elastic member or stitched fixedly to the elasticmember), attached to the corresponding air mover 16, or provided as aseparate component. In one embodiment, lanyard 262 may be attached to anair mover 16 or other drying device by a screw or similar fasteningmeans to prevent misplacement of elastic member 254 when the elasticmember 254 is not in use to secure ducting directly to the device.Various methods for securely connecting a lanyard 262 to a device willbe recognized by those of skill in the art. Alternatively, a lanyard 262may be threaded through, looped around, or formed as a protrusion of ahost device 16, or attached with a variety of other known fasteners,including, but not limited to, Velcro, magnets, glue, etc.

FIG. 24 depicts another embodiment of the present invention wherein anelastic member 254, a lanyard 262, and a pull tab 266 are contemplated.In one embodiment, pull tab 266 may comprise a device for quick removaland application of elastic member 254 to various corresponding devices.As those of skill working in the art will recognize, removal of theelastic member 254 may be burdensome, particularly when the elasticmember 254 is secured around the circumference of another object and/orwhere the elastic member 254 is placed in a significant amount oftension. In one embodiment, pull tab 266 may be selectively attached tothe elastic member 254 and capable of being slid or translated around acircumference of the elastic member 254, thus gradually prying theelastic member 254 from its corresponding component 16. The device 266and method may be particularly useful, for example, where the elasticmember 254 is secured around a lip or flange 198 of an air mover 16 orsimilar structure of other drying equipment. Elastic member 254 may befurther equipped with a lanyard 262 or similar attachment means aspreviously described. In another embodiment, pull tab 266 may beattached to the elastic member 254. Accordingly, pull tab 266 mayoperate as a means for gripping at least a portion of the elastic member254 to facilitate application and removal. It will be recognized thatpull tab 266 of such an embodiment is not limited to any particularshape or dimensions.

FIG. 25 depicts yet another embodiment where an elastic member 254 isequipped with a plurality of pull tabs 270. In one embodiment, pull tabs270 are selectively attached to elastic member 254 and thereby allowedto slide around a circumference of the elastic member 254 to assist inthe removal or prying of the elastic member 254 from an attached device16. Alternatively, one or more of the pull tabs 270 may be attached tothe elastic member 254. For example, one pull tab 270 may be affixed tothe elastic member 254 while another is free to slide around acircumference of the elastic member 254. The fixed pull tab 270 may beused to stabilize the device while the non-fixed tab may be used inconjunction to gradually free the elastic member 254 from a variety ofother objects. In another embodiment, both pull tabs 270 may be fixedlyattached to the elastic member 254. It will be recognized that thepresent invention is not limited to a specific number of pull tabs 270.For example, where an elastic member 254 will be applied to anotherdevice under a significant amount of tension, it may be desirable toinclude pull tabs 270 in excess of two. As shown in FIG. 25, anembodiment of the present invention with a plurality of pull tabs 270may further include attachment means 262 to further secure the elasticmember 254 to a device.

FIG. 26 depicts yet another embodiment of the present invention whereinopposing ends of an elastic member 254 comprise connecting members 274,278. As those of skill working in the art will recognize, connectingmeans 274, 278 provide for easy attachment and renewal of an elasticmember 254 as connecting means 274, 278 may be readily connected ordisconnected from one another. Connecting means 274, 278 of elasticmember 254 may include, but are not limited to buckles, clasps, threadedmembers, opposing hooks, latches, hook-post combinations, magnets, andother similar devices. In one embodiment, connecting means 274, 278comprise a post 274 and hook 278 that form a sufficient securingmechanism when an elastic member 254 is placed is in tension, but allowfor relative ease in removal the elastic member 254.

One of skill working in the art will recognize that the presentinvention 20 is not limited to a specific length, width, or elasticity.It will be recognized that the size and restoring force of an elasticmember will vary with respect to the desired application. Accordingly,numerous variations of size and elasticity are contemplated as withinthe scope of the present invention.

The Air Filter and Chemical Injector

Referring now to FIGS. 27-37, various filter devices 282 are shown whichmay be operated in connection with an air mover. Filter devices 282 areknown to provide various benefits, including the removal of airborneallergens, contaminants, and other particles. For example, U.S. Pat. No.6,976,911 to Lanham et al., which is incorporated by reference in itsentirety herein, discloses a method and apparatus for filtering airbornecontaminants.

One advantage of filter devices 282 of the present invention is that airfiltration and purification may be accomplished by utilizing the powergeneration features of other devices, such as air movers, which mayalready be in operation. For example, the filter 282 may be mounted upona lip or flange portion 198 of air mover 16 and sealed to prevent orminimize the amount of air that bypasses the filter stages or thatescapes from the air mover 16. In this manner, the filter 282 maycomprise a generally passive device that is free from the needs andcomplications posed by energy consuming filter devices. As will beunderstood by those of skill in the art, the filter may be attached toan air mover in any suitable fashion, specifically includingmanufacturing the two devices as one.

FIG. 27 depicts one embodiment of filter device 282 and comprises one ormore filter stages. For example, a first filter stage may be disposedwithin an inlet portion 286 of the filter housing 290. The first filterstage may be comprised of any one of a variety of filters currentlyknown in the art, or combinations thereof. For example, the first filterstage may be comprised of a pleated electrostatic filter, high densitycarbon filter, reticulated foam filter, pleated paper filter, oiledcotton gauze filter, membrane filter, high efficiency particulate airfilter (“HEPA”) filter, or other similar devices. Various devicessuitable for use in the present are known. For example, U.S. Pat. No.6,428,616 to Tsai et al. discloses a high efficiency particulate airfilter and method for making the same, and is incorporated by referencein its entirety herein. U.S. Patent Application Publication No.190609/01903477 to Workman discloses a panel-type HVAC filter and isalso hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

It will be recognized that an inlet portion of the filter device 282need not be located or oriented in any specific manner. For example, atop portion of the filter housing 290 may comprise the primary inlet ofthe filter device 282, which may further include a lip or flange aspreviously described.

In one embodiment, filter housing 290 may comprise a quick-release orlatch mechanism 294 to facilitate the removal and/or replacement offilter components contained within and to facilitate easy cleaning ofthe internal space of the housing. For example, a filter clamp thatextends around a circumference of the filter unit 282 may be employed toattach and seal two portions of the filter housing 290 a & b together inorder to provide an air and water tight seal, yet still allow forremoval of at least a portion of the housing 290 a & b when filtercomponents require cleaning and/or replacement. The clamp may furthercomprise additional sealing means, such as a gasket disposed withinseparable portions of the filter housing 290, to further provide an airand water-proof seal for the housing 290.

Referring now to FIGS. 28 and 29, the filter stages may be disposedwithin the filter housing 290, either in replacement of or incombination with the first filter stage. For example, a cylindricalfilter 298 may be disposed within the filter housing 290. Cylindricalfilter 298 may be comprised of any number of known filter devices aspreviously described. It will be recognized that a conical filter may beemployed in place of the cylindrical filter 298. Conical filters knownin the art, such as those frequently employed in the automotiveindustry, may be utilized in various embodiments of the presentinvention.

In another embodiment, a panel filter 300 may be disposed within thefilter housing 290 in addition to or in lieu of a filter disposed withininlet portion 286 and/or a cylindrical filter 298 as previouslydescribed. Various filters known in the art, including those describedherein, as well as various fiberglass and/or pleated filters maycomprise the panel filter 300 of the present invention. It will berecognized that the scope and spirit of the present invention is notlimited to any number or specific arrangement of the above referencedfilter components. While it will be understood by those working in theart that additional filter elements may increase the level of filtrationand purification at the expense of flow rate and pressure loss, anynumber of stages of filters may be employed within the filter housing aspreviously described.

In another embodiment, the filter housing 290 includes an inlet portion286 with a lip or flange portion which facilities the attachment ofadditional devices, such as ducting. Ducting may be connected to theinlet portion 286 through the use of various devices including, but notlimited to, elastic members 254 as previously described. Various ductingas described above, may also be used in combination with the presentinvention.

Accordingly, inlet portion 286 of filter 282 may either draw air fromthe filter housing's 290 immediate surroundings, or may draw air fromanother location or environment (e.g. another room or structure) throughthe connected ducting. Similarly, various forms of ducting as previouslydescribed may be attached to a flange portion 198 of a primary outlet190 of an air mover which is attached to the filter housing 290.

FIG. 28 depicts another embodiment of the filtration device 282 whereinthe filter housing 290 is comprised of a hinged enclosure to allow forease of access to an interior portion of the device 282 and filtrationcomponents housed therein. Filter housing 290 may be comprised of twoportions 304 a and b, which may be hinged to allow for ease of openingthe device. In addition to being hingedly connected, housing portions304 a and b may further be connected with a hinged arm 308 to furtherfacilitate opening and to prevent complete separation of the housingportions 294. Additionally, filter housing 290 may comprise an inlet 286as previously described, or variations thereof.

In one embodiment, filter device 282 comprises a cylindrical filtrationunit 298 disposed within the housing 290. Filter unit 298 may becomprised of a pleated electrostatic filter, high density carbon filter,reticulated foam filter, pleated paper filter, oiled cotton gauzefilter, membrane filter, high efficiency particulate air filter (“HEPA”)filter, or other similar devices known in the art. Furthermore, filterunit 298 may comprise the only filtration unit of the device 282, or mayact in series or parallel with various other filter units as previouslydescribed.

It will be recognized that the present invention should form asubstantially sealed unit when the housing portions 304 a and b are in aclosed position. Accordingly, various devices known in the art may beutilized to accomplish a satisfactory seal of the filter housing 290.For example, a gasket or ring may be provided around or peripheral tothe interface between housing portions 304 a and b. Furthermore, a clampor latch mechanism may further be provided to obtain the desired seal.

FIG. 29 depicts yet another embodiment of the present invention whereina filter comprised of a hinged enclosure unit includes a panel filter300 disposed within. As previously described, panel filter 300 mayoperate as the sole filter stage or may be used in conjunction with oneor more additional filter elements.

Referring now to FIGS. 30-37, a filtration device for use in connectionwith an air mover 16, according to one embodiment of the presentdisclosure is shown. FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of afiltration device 282 according to one embodiment of the filter device.Filtration device 282 consists of housing portions 305 a and b which maycontain various filter stages 312, 316. In one embodiment, one filterstage consists of a HEPA filter 316 which may be attached to a portionof the housing 304 a and b. Fastening member, such as retaining clips320 may be employed to secure a HEPA filter 316, or similar device, in adesired location. One of skill working in the art will recognize thatretaining clips 320 may be comprised of any number of known devices,including, but not limited to biased members capable of receiving afilter panel 316. In one embodiment, additional panel filters 312 a andb such as those previously described may be contained within thefiltration device 282. One or more of these filter stages 312 a and bmay be disposed within the filter housing and may constitute areplacement to the previously described HEPA filter 316 or may act tofilter air or fluid in addition to HEPA filter 316.

In one embodiment, a filtration device 282 comprises a sealing element324 which is useful for obtaining an airtight seal between housingportions 305 a and b. One of skill working in the art will recognizethat it may be desirable to provide housing portions 305 a and b whichare separable and allow for the removal and/or replacement of filterelements 312, 316. It will further be recognized, however, that whenfilter housing portions 305 a and b are placed in contact with eachother, it is desirable to prevent or minimize the unwanted escape orentrance of air from an interface between housing portions 305 a and b.Accordingly, a sealing element 324 (for example, a rubber gasket) may beprovided to reduce the risk of unwanted air flow.

Clasps 328 may also be provided to facilitate the appropriate sealbetween filter housing portions 305 a and b. A variety of latches orclasps known in the art may be implemented to secure housing portions305 a and b in close communication with each other and to apply anappropriate amount of compression on a sealing element 324. It will berecognized that various fastening devices 328 may be used to accomplishobjectives of the present inventive air filter. For example, housingportions 305 a and b may be secured together with nuts and bolts,c-clamps, a clamp(s) that surrounds a circumference of the unit 282,and/or various other devices known in the art.

FIG. 33 depicts one embodiment wherein a filtration device 282 may besecured to a portion of an air mover 16. In one embodiment, one or morepassive clamps 330 may be provided to attach a filtration device 282 toan air mover 16. Passive clamp 330 may be comprised of any number ofknown devices, including, but not limited to hooks, ramped members,magnets, and other similar fasteners. Passive clamps 330 may be fixedlyattached to a portion of the filter housing 305 a and b and capable ofinterfacing with a lip or flange portion 198 of an air mover 16. In oneembodiment, passive clamps 330 do not require user adjustment. However,attachment mechanism 334 may be provided to tighten, apply, and/orremove passive clamps 330. Attachment mechanism 334 may be comprised of,for example, threaded holes within a portion of a housing 305 b capableof accommodating screws and similar attachment means.

In one embodiment, passive clamps 330 act in conjunction with a screwclamp 338 as shown in FIGS. 34-37. Screw clamp 338 may communicate witha ramped or tapered portion of a flange 198 of an air mover 16. As thescrew clamp 338 is rotated and thus driven inwards toward a flange 198,the torque applied to the screw, resulting in inward movement, andcreating resistance provided by flange portion 46 that will force thehousing portion 305 b downward and in closer communication with an airmover 16. Accordingly, tightening the screw clamp may apply greatercompression on an air mover sealing element 326 and provide a sealbetween the filtration device 282 and air mover 16. Various devices maybe employed to assist the application of compression forces to sealingelement 326. For example, a bracket 342 may be employed to reduce stressconcentration imparted by the screw clamp 338. In one embodiment, thebracket 342 extends 360 degrees around a bottom portion of the filterhousing 305 b and thus facilitates the application of uniform pressure.

Various mating devices may also be employed at the interface of a screwclamp 338 and a flange portion 198 of air mover 16 to assist in thesealing of the unit and to mitigate damage caused to the flange 198. Forexample, various known mating plates may be applied to the intersectionof the screw clamp 338 and the flange portion 198.

In one embodiment of the air filter, two passive clamps 330 and onescrew clamp 338 are provided on the housing portion 304 b. These threedevices may be situated circumferentially and spaced approximately 120degrees apart. However, the present invention is not limited to anyspecific number or arrangement of passive 330 or screw 338 clamps. Itwill be recognized that various embodiments, including, for example,embodiments which utilize only passive clamps 330 and those whichutilize only screw clamps 338 are within the scope of the presentinvention.

Filter housing devices of various embodiments, as described herein, maycomprise additional features to aid in the filtration and purificationof air, gases, or fluids. For example, ozone injecting devices may beincluded within the filter housing. Methods and devices for injectingozone are described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,839,155 to Berglundet al., which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entiretyherein. Filter housing devices may also include devices such asultraviolet light radiation means and chemical injection means tosanitize or disinfect air, either before or after passing through filterelements.

In various embodiments of the present invention, a filter device (orother devices) may further include systems to dispel or atomizesubstances in order to disinfect, freshen, or otherwise modify air. Forexample, an atomizer may be incorporated within an air flow path of afilter device, either within or proximal to the filter stages, and offera user the ability to selectively disperse various chemical, cleaners,and/or fragrances to an area via the air flow produced by the filterdevice 282. Various commercial devices are currently known which providethe ability to selectively release such substances and/or to releasesubstances on specific or random time intervals. Materials to be usedwith such spraying mechanisms include, but are not limited todesiccants, disinfectants, air fresheners, and similar substances knownto those working in the art.

The Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers are generally comprised of a compressor 502, evaporator504 and condenser 512 that are interconnected by a series of tubes thatcarry refrigerant. The compressor 502 delivers hot compressedrefrigerant gas to the condenser 512. The condenser 512 condenses thehot compressed refrigerant gas into hot refrigerant liquid. An expansiondevice 524 receives the refrigerant liquid from the condenser andexpands same, thereby rapidity reducing its temperature and pressure.The evaporator 504 receives the cool liquid refrigerant from theexpansion device, producing a cold gas refrigerant, which is returned tothe compressor 502 to complete the refrigeration cycle. Air flow isdirected across the evaporator 504 to cool the air below the dew pointthereof such that water vapor, i.e. humidity, in that air is condensedto a liquid that separates from the air, thus, dehumidifying the air.The dehumidified air is then directed across the condenser 512 to aid inthe condensing of the refrigerant therein. For a concise explanation ofdehumidifiers and portable dehumidifiers see above-identified U.S. Pat.No. 7,281,398. Embodiments of the present invention employ commondehumidifiers. Other embodiments employ a dehumidifiers that include aThermal Expansion Valve as disclosed in U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication No. 20100326103. Still other embodiments employ thedehumidifier described below.

More specifically, FIGS. 38-41 show a dehumidifier 500 of anotherembodiment of the present invention that uses cold condensate from anevaporator 504 to cool a hot discharge 508 expelled from the compressor502. The efficiency of the dehumidifier 500 may be augmented with coldwater from an outside source. The system also produces hot or warm waterthat can be used elsewhere in the system. More specifically, the hotdischarge fluid 508 taken from the compressor 502 is thermally exposedto cool water 516 from a catch pan 520 that receives water droplets fromthe evaporator 504. The hot discharge 508 is cooled prior to enteringthe condenser 512, which helps the condenser 512 further cool therefrigeration fluid of the dehumidifier. An expansion valve 524 orcapillary tube is employed between the condenser 512 and evaporator 504to control the flow of refrigerant through the dehumidifier 500 similarto that described above. As shown in FIG. 55, cool water 525 may beadded to the fluids 516 captured by the catch pan 520. A hose 532 mayalso be associated with a tank 536 that holds the fluid taken from theevaporator 504 that drains the tank 536 or sends heated water to asecond location.

While various embodiments the present invention have been described indetail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of thoseembodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to beexpressly understood that such modifications and alterations are withinthe scope and spirit of the present invention, as set forth in thefollowing claims. Further, the invention(s) described herein are capableof other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out invarious ways. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseologyand terminology used herein is for the purposes of description andshould not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,”“comprising,” or “adding” and variations thereof herein are meant toencompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof, as wellas, additional items.

The foregoing discussion of the invention has been presented forpurposes of illustration and description. The foregoing is not intendedto limit the invention to the form or forms disclosed herein. In theforegoing description for example, various features of the inventionhave been identified. It should be appreciated that these features maybe combined together into a single embodiment or in various othercombinations as appropriate for the intended end use of the band. Thedimensions of the component pieces may also vary, yet still be withinthe scope of the invention. This method of disclosure is not to beinterpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed inventionrequires more features than are expressly recited in each claim.Moreover, though the description of the invention has includeddescription of one or more embodiments and certain variations andmodifications, other variations and modifications are within the scopeof the invention, e.g. as may be within the skill and knowledge of thosein the art, after understanding the present disclosure. It is intendedto obtain rights which include alternative embodiments to the extentpermitted, including alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalentstructures, functions, ranges or steps to those claimed, whether or notsuch alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions,ranges or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publiclydedicate any patentable subject matter.

The present invention, in various embodiments, includes components,methods, processes, systems and/or apparatus substantially as depictedand described herein, including various embodiments, subcombinations,and subsets thereof. Those of skill in the art will understand how tomake and use the present invention after understanding the presentdisclosure. The present invention, in various embodiments, includesproviding devices and processes in the absence of items not depictedand/or described herein or in various embodiments hereof, including inthe absence of such items as may have been used in previous devices orprocesses, e.g., for improving performance, achieving ease and\orreducing cost of implementation. Rather, as the following claimsreflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of any singleforegoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are herebyincorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing onits own as a separate embodiment of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An air mover comprising: a motor; an impellermounted co-axially with the motor, the impeller comprising a pluralityof blades and wherein the motor is operable to rotate the blades aboutan axis in order to generate an airflow; a primary air inlet; a primaryair outlet; a pair of rigid sidewalls operable to direct airflow; atleast one of the primary air inlet and the primary air outlet providedwith a grate member; at least one mount for securing the motor to aninterior of the air mover, and the motor and co-axially mounted impellerprovided substantially co-axially with a center axis of the primary airinlet and positioned substantially perpendicular to the primary airoutlet; wherein the primary air outlet comprises an elongate outlet witha width being greater than a height and wherein an axis of the motor andco-axially mounted impeller is provided substantially perpendicular tothe width; a handle for grasping the air mover, wherein at least aportion of the handle is offset from and substantially coplanar with thecenter of mass of the air mover; a plurality of support members forsupporting the air mover in at least one predetermined position.
 2. Theair mover of claim 1, wherein the plurality of blades comprises at leastthree and not more than ten blades.
 3. The air mover of claim 1, whereinthe primary outlet comprises an outwardly oriented flange portion. 4.The air mover of claim 1, further comprising members for securing anelectrical cord to the air mover.
 5. The air mover of claim 1, whereinthe at least one predetermined position comprises a position wherein thecenter axis of the primary air inlet is arranged vertically.
 6. The airmover of claim 1, wherein the at least one predetermined positioncomprises a position wherein the center axis of the primary air inlet isarranged horizontally.
 7. The air mover of claim 1, wherein theplurality of support members comprise non-skid members.
 8. The air moverof claim 1, wherein the motor is secured to the mount by at least onefastener.
 9. An air mover comprising: a motor; an impeller mountedco-axially with the motor, the motor being selectively securable to theair mover by at least one fastener, and the impeller comprising aplurality of blades and wherein the motor is operable to rotate theblades about an axis in order to generate an airflow; a primary airinlet; a primary air outlet; sidewalls operable to direct airflow; oneor more members for securing an electrical cord to the air mover; atleast one of the primary air inlet and the primary air outlet providedwith a grate member; at least one mount for securing the motor to aninterior of the air mover, and the motor and co-axially mounted impellerprovided substantially co-axially with a center axis of the primary airinlet and positioned substantially perpendicular to the primary airoutlet; a handle for grasping the air mover, wherein at least a portionof the handle is offset from and substantially coplanar with the centerof mass of the air mover; a plurality of support members for supportingthe air mover in at least one predetermined position.
 10. The air moverof claim 9, wherein the support members comprise a non-slip material.11. The air mover of claim 9, further comprising a heating elementassociated with at least one of the primary inlet and the primaryoutlet.
 12. The air mover of claim 9, wherein the primary air outletcomprises an outwardly oriented flange portion.
 13. The air mover ofclaim 9, wherein the at least one predetermined position comprises atleast one of: a position wherein the center axis of the primary airinlet is arranged vertically and a position wherein the center axis ofthe primary air inlet is arranged horizontally.
 14. An air movercomprising: a motor; an impeller mounted co-axially with the motor, theimpeller comprising a plurality of blades and wherein the motor isoperable to rotate the blades about an axis in order to generate anairflow; a primary air inlet; a primary air outlet; sidewalls operableto direct airflow; a molded body portion, an upper portion of the bodyportion comprising at least one extension member for at least one ofwrapping and securing an electrical cord; at least one of the primaryair inlet and the primary air outlet provided with a grate member; atleast one mount for securing the motor to an interior of the air mover,and the motor and co-axially mounted impeller provided substantiallyco-axially with a center axis of the primary inlet and positionedsubstantially perpendicular to the primary outlet; a handle for graspingthe air mover, wherein at least a portion of the handle is offset fromand substantially coplanar with the center of mass of the air mover; anda plurality of support members for supporting the air mover in at leastone predetermined position.
 15. The air mover of claim 14, wherein anupper portion of the body portion is provided with one or more surfacefeatures adapted for receiving opposing or corresponding featuresprovided on a bottom portion of a second air mover, wherein a pluralityof air movers may be provided in a stacked arrangement.
 16. The airmover of claim 14, wherein the sidewalls comprise at least two rigidsidewalls having substantially symmetrical features adapted to receivean opposing side wall of an additional air mover of substantially thesame construction, wherein multiple air movers are capable of beingprovided in a stacked arrangement.
 17. The air mover of claim 14,wherein the upper portion of the body portion is provided with one ormore surface features adapted for receiving opposing or correspondingfeatures provided on a bottom portion of a second air mover, wherein aplurality of air movers may be provided in a stacked arrangement. 18.The air mover of claim 14, wherein the rigid sidewalls comprise a pairof rigid sidewalls comprising substantially symmetrical features adaptedto receive an opposing side wall of an additional air mover ofsubstantially the same construction, wherein two air movers may beprovided in a stacked arrangement.
 19. The air mover of claim 14,wherein at least one of the primary air inlet and the primary air outletcomprises a flange portion proximal to a perimeter thereof.
 20. The airmover of claim 14, wherein the primary air outlet comprises an elongateaperture.
 21. The air mover of claim 20, wherein the primary air outletcomprises an elongate ovoid aperture.
 22. The air mover of claim 14,wherein the body portion comprises a bottom portion, and wherein thebottom portion comprises a louver for selectively increasing anddecreasing an air flow rate through the bottom portion.
 23. An air movercomprising: a body portion; a motor; an impeller mounted co-axially withthe motor, the impeller comprising a plurality of blades and wherein themotor is operable to rotate the blades about an axis in order togenerate an airflow; a primary inlet; a primary outlet; sidewallsoperable to direct airflow; at least one of the primary inlet and theprimary outlet provided with a grate member to prevent unwanted debrisfrom entering the air mover; at least one mount for securing the motorto an interior of the air mover, and the motor and co-axially mountedimpeller provided substantially co-axially with a center axis of theprimary inlet and positioned substantially perpendicular to the primaryoutlet; a handle for grasping the air mover, wherein at least a portionof the handle is offset from and substantially coplanar with the centerof mass of the air mover; a plurality of support members for supportingthe air mover in or more predetermined positions, the plurality ofsupport members provided on a bottom portion and a side portion of thebody portion.
 24. The air mover of claim 23, wherein an upper portion ofthe body portion is provided with one or more surface features adaptedfor receiving opposing or corresponding features provided on the bottomportion of a second air mover.
 25. The air mover of claim 23, whereinthe rigid sidewalls comprise a pair of rigid sidewalls havingsubstantially symmetrical features adapted to receive an opposing sidewall of a second air mover.
 26. The air mover of claim 23, wherein atleast one of the primary inlet and the primary outlet comprises a flangeportion proximal to a perimeter of the primary inlet or outlet.
 27. Theair mover of claim 23, wherein the primary inlet comprises asubstantially circular aperture.
 28. The air mover of claim 23, whereinthe primary outlet comprises an elongate aperture.
 29. The air mover ofclaim 28, wherein the primary outlet comprises an elongate ovoidaperture.
 30. The air mover of claim 26, wherein at least one of theprimary inlet and the primary outlet comprises a securing member forsecuring ducting to at least one of the primary inlet and the primaryoutlet.